The president made the announcement Friday, one day after Mr. Amadou and his cabinet tendered their resignations in line with Niger's constitution.

Mr. Amadou, who is 54, has been praised for his efforts to steer the impoverished West African country towards economic and political stability. He was widely expected to be re-appointed as prime minister.

Earlier this month, President Mamadou won 65.5 percent of the vote in the final round of presidential elections. His ruling party also won a strong majority in parliament.